Health unit investigating Orillia Legionnaires’ disease cluster

ORILLIA, ON- The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is currently looking into a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in the Orillia area.

According to the unit, eight cases of the disease have been confirmed in individuals who reside in or have visited the City of Orillia in recent weeks.

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung disease caused by Legionella bacteria, which is commonly found in natural freshwater environments.

However, it can become a health concern in water systems, such as cooling towers, plumbing systems in large buildings and certain medical devices when conditions allow the bacteria to multiply.

People can develop Legionnaires’ disease when they inhale aerosolized water droplets containing the bacteria. People cannot get Legionnaires’ disease by drinking water and it cannot be passed from person to person. Most people exposed to the bacteria do not become ill.

The disease is a type of pneumonia (lung infection) caused by the bacteria. People over the age of 50, smokers, or those with certain medical conditions, including weakened immune systems, chronic lung disease or other chronic health conditions, are at increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease.

“We are investigating and ensuring the proper functioning of such water systems that may be the source of the illnesses, and we have notified health care providers in the community to watch and test for potential cases,” said Dr. Charles Gardner, medical officer of health for SMDHU, in the unit’s announcement.

“The risk to residents and visitors is very low. At this time, we do not recommend Orillia residents to change their work, play and travel plans.”

Legionnaires’ disease can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common are fever, chills, cough and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms can also develop, such as headaches, muscle pain and digestive problems (e.g. loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea).

Anyone with concerns that they may be ill should call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or seek immediate medical attention if they have difficulty breathing.